Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX100 Review

Some of the most beloved premium compact cameras in the last decade are Panasonic's LX-series. They always offered larger-than-average sensors but, from the LX3 onwards, the big draw of those cameras has been their fast lenses. The last LX model was the Lumix DMC-LX7, introduced back in fall of 2012. Since then, LX-series enthusiasts have been chomping at the bit for something new.

Given the rise of cameras with 1"-type sensors from the likes of Sony, Samsung, and now Canon, LX-series enthusiasts were hoping for the same in the next model. Well, we've got bad news for you: the new Lumix DMC-LX100 doesn't have one. Instead, Panasonic has somehow managed to squeeze in a Four Thirds sensor, whose area is twice as large as a 1" sensor and five times bigger than the 1/1.7" sensor in the LX7.

There is a caveat here, which is that the LX100 isn't actually using the entire sensor, instead cropping it to allow for multi-aspect shooting (just as its predecessor did). Thus, the effective sensor area on the LX100 is really 1.5X larger than 1" and 4.3X the size of 1/1.7". In our experience, the added creative encouragement offered by the multi-aspect approach, combined with a conveniently-placed aspect ratio switch is more valuable than the extra couple of megapixels and larger lens that a full-sensor design would require.

4:3

3:2

16:9

1:1

The hallmark feature of the LX100 is its Four Thirds sensor which, as we mentioned, is significantly larger than any other zoom compact save for the PowerShot G1 X II and its predecessor. If Panasonic used the entire 16 megapixel Four Thirds sensor it would be twice the size of the 1" sensors found on the likes of the Canon PowerShot G7 X and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100, but the camera's multi-aspect ratio requires a crop, so the difference is actually 1.5X. Even so, that's a considerable advantage, especially when combined with the LX100's fast lens.

Another big feature on the LX100 is its lens, which has a maximum aperture range of F1.7-2.8 and an effective focal range of 24-75mm. When you combine the fast lens and large sensor the LX100 ends up being a pretty impressive camera for those who like shallow depth-of-field. And should also mean greatly improved low light shooting.

This graph plots the equivalent focal lengths and apertures of the LX100 against its immediate rivals. That is, it compares the zoom range and apertures on a common basis. Lower down the diagram is better, all else being equal.

So, while the LX100 is a considerably larger camera than its predecessors, its larger sensor means it promises to be a more capable one. Whereas the LX3 competed with the Canon PowerShot G10's 1/1.7" sensor, the LX100 looks ready to trade blows with the PowerShot G1 X II. The level of direct control is increased, in proportion to its greater ambitions; with dedicated aperture, shutter speed and exposure compensation dials.

The styling of the LX100 is also significantly different from previous LX models, borrowing much more from Panasonic's DMC-L1 DSLR and LC1 high-end compact than from the LX series. The result is a bigger camera but also a considerably more serious one, and one that's pretty good looking.

Aperture and control dials around lens, shutter speed dial on top plate

3" 921k dot LCD

11 fps continuous shooting (6.5 with C-AF)

4K video recording at 30p and 24, Full HD at up to 60p

In-camera Raw conversion

Wi-Fi with NFC

As you can see, that's a pretty extensive list but, as it turns out, it's only a list of the headline specifications of the camera. The LX100 also includes a time-lapse function, the ability to create in-camera stop motion videos and a host of other specialist features. We cover as many of these as is practical in our full review, but aren't able to go into depth about everything.

Those who enjoy Panasonic's Creative Effects can now use them in A/S/M mode. A new timed exposure is essentially a bulb mode where you choose how long the exposure is. In addition to 4K video, the LX100 also has a 4K Photo mode, which lets you use the aspect ratio of your choice. The camera also offers an electronic shutter option for silent shooting.

One trade-off that comes from the addition of an EVF is the loss of the flash. Panasonic includes a clip-on compact external flash in the box that has a guide number of 7m at ISO 100. The in-lens shutter on the camera can sync with the flash all the way up to its 1/4000th of a second upper limit. The electronic shutter that extends beyond that cannot be used with flash.

The impressive thing to note is how much smaller and lighter the LX100 is than the G1 X II and that it's not dramatically larger than the LX7. It's enough of the difference that the LX100 will probably have to go in a coat pocket or the corner of a bag, but it's still a lot smaller than a comparable interchangeable lens camera.

Kit options and accessories

The LX100 has a list price of $899/. This is $100 more than the Canon G1 X II's launch price, but the LX100 includes a built-in viewfinder, as well as 4K video capture, both of which the Canon lacks.

A cool accessory that Panasonic will be offering is the auto lens cap you see above. We've seen this sort of lens protector from Ricoh and Olympus before, but we still think they're fun.

Comments

I own a LX 100 Mk I and all that I want is a firmware update which don't turn off the flash when we use the camera in silent mode.I would also like to add the LX 100 II resources features to mine:- Post Focus;- Focus Stacking;- Auto Marking;- Sequence Composition and- The new "L.Monochrome D Picture Style".

Interesting camera, but 4 years old now, and it seems like they haven't updated it. Meanwhile, Sony keeps cranking out RX cameras, which are more money, but also more modern. Four years is ancient in the tech world.

I know this camera is well respected and seems like a fine little solution for light travel and street. But, but, but, it's becoming obsolete. Waiting for an upgrade may be like waiting for Godot, given the decline in sales for this class of camera. Can some one suggest an alternative--small, with at least a m43 sensor? I would even consider some combination of ILC.

This is my favorite camera of all time. The combination of Sensor-Lens size, levels of functionality and performance are outstanding. I've had no issue with focus placement since I use the back-button AF and recompose technique.For me, the only issue is the excessive, irritating and unnecessary lens extend/retract cycles, making this camera prone to gather dust inside the lens/sensor which also shortens the life of the motorized zoom lens mechanism.There is no perfect camera but the LX100 comes close.A Mic input, an articulated Touch Screen, ND filter and updated sensor with higher rez would make it almost perfect. The zoom range might look limited but the well implemented Digital Zoom/Crop feature makes up for that giving you up to 600mm Eqv if your final image size is for the web.Panasonic MUST come with an updated version of this stellar camera model.This has been the only camera that has me excited lately and would absolutely love a future LX200 using the same form factor.

So give it a 24-50mm lens, a 20 MP sensor, add the tilt/touch screen and ND filter AND eliminate the "multi aspect" design and you now have my perfect camera.

You say you want more range? Then crop. Or use your digital zoom feature. You now have 20 MP to play with rather than 12.7 MP.

In fact, this camera might even work with a single focal length lens, like a 24mm f/1.8 and using a full sized 4/3 20 MP sensor. A single focal length didn't hurt the sales of Fuji X100, Sony RX1, or Leica Q cameras either.

:This camera is now more than 3 years old with a completed outdated sensor (compared to newer-gen m34s) and an extremely limited resolution. I wonder if Panasonic will discontinue this product line in favor of the 1inch Sensor compacts or why it's taking them so long to have a successor for it..

It's a great camera, no doubts about it, but lower priced and more portable cameras like the LX10 that offer higher resolution/similar low noise performance in an overall better package are starting to eat away the potential of a higher-end compact built around a m34 Sensor.

really ... LX10 has no view finder ... or manual focus .. I guess if you are only interested in snap shots or selfies ... the LX 10 is your choice ..but having learned photography from my grandfather (when AS400 was a "Fast" film) that learning the Art of photography is important ... and not just setting the camera on Auto and snapping away ...

As questioned below 7 months ago, this model is getting a little long in the tooth. I'd love to know if there is a Mark II version in the works. I thought they might introduce one at CES but that didn't happen. I've pretty much decided this fits what I want from my next camera but would hate to buy it only to have either a significantly improved version debut and/or a large price drop on this one.

On the wish list for the Mk II are a tilting LCD, higher resolution sensor, better noise reduction, perhaps a little longer max focal length and perhaps a touch screen for autofocus point selection. Keep the size and price the same and that would really be worth waiting for.

''Filter and iA buttons on top plate poorly used and not customizable''I have no problem with the filter button, it's what it can do, although I only liked the ''Expressive impression'', and the iA button I only use when it is convenient at the moment...

I don't see a problem with iA button since this is very convenient and even a critical function regardless of your level of expertise with the camera there are many times when All Automatic is needed.As for the filter effects I'm disappointed that Panasonic didn't include "barrel distortion" since it is nothing more than deactivating the built-in lens correction and give a much wider angle off view at the wide end of the lens.

Only recently found out about this camera, reminds me so much of my old 35mm Olympus with it's 50mm on the front.Pretty sure I'd love to own one.

It's coming up on it's 2nd birthday this review, so my question is, is this camera still worth getting or will there be an update soon enough to make waiting a viable option? I definitely want a new camera for next summer.

Hi J1M,I bought this camera about a month ago and am pretty happy with it. I absolutely love the manual aperture and shutter speed controls. A lot of people have referred to this as a "retro" design, but it's so much more efficient and usable on a human scale than the "modern" method of hunting through a menu on a screen, so sign me up for retro!

I find the image quality to be good but not DSLR good (and, of course, a person shouldn't expect DSLR quality out of such a small camera with a slightly smaller-than 4/3 sensor). The lens tends to be just a little bit too soft when shooting with a wide open aperture and at both extremes of the zoom. The default color saturation is a little to bold for my tastes as well, particularly reds and blues. And the in-camera jpeg noise processing is ridiculously aggressive, particularly at high ISOs. The good news is that a lot of this is easily manageable by fine-tuning the default settings or by shooting RAW images. This is all pretty nit-picky on my part, and I do tend to ask a lot of the camera by shooting a lot of street scenes in low light (you can take a look at my gallery if you want some sample shots). The bottom line is that this camera is capable of capturing some excellent images. It focuses fast and has an impressive f/1.7 to f/2.8 zoom lens -- great for narrow depth-of-field shots or low-light situations. The camera blows an iPhone or your average point and shoot out of the water.

A couple of caveats: A lot of people have debated the camera's 4K video capabilities. I don't care anything about video and am only concerned about still images, so video is a moot point for me. Also, there have been some big debates over the lack of a built-in flash. This is also a moot point for me. I prefer shooting without a flash, and the camera does come with a detachable flash for those who want or need it, and more importantly, the camera has a hotshoe that can be used with larger/better flashes if needed. I do wish the camera had a tilt/touch screen, but I can live without it, especially since there's a viewfinder built in.

So after a month of shooting with this, I'm still quite happy. It's a responsive camera that produces impressive images. It's got a solid build and feels a bit like an old rangefinder. I don't know if a newer model is on the horizon or not, but I think this camera holds up very well after two years on the market.

Hi,i own this camera for a few weeks now. According usability, size and features i really like the LX100. What i am disappointent about is the overall sharpness of images. Nearly all images i made (especially with distances more than 5 meters) look somehow out of focus and uncrispy. There are aberrations where the shots are of the sharpness i expect from a camera of this class. Find some samples here: https://www.dpreview.com/forums/thread/4025891#forum-post-58021063Have a look at DPR Review samples gallery also and watch the images at 100%.If this is not a handling error by me and this is the cameras IQ i will definitely give it back.

I set up the LX100 on a tripod next to a GX7 and took pictures of the kitchen clock. The LX100 images were surprisingly very unsharp compared with the GX7.On the dpreview test screen, the images look similar so is it the camera? The LX100 images are so bad that I don't want to use the LX100 any more.Why are the dpreview images similar and mine so different?

My LX100 stopped focusing after a few month of use. Since new, I noticed a slight grinding noise. I looked it up, and apparently other owners had heard it too. Some people claimed that it was normal, and I assumed so since my camera was working fine. But now it will not focus right, specially on the wide side. I really liked the camera, its size and features, but it does feel fragile. Anyway, now I can not get the seller PANACAM to honor the warranty... But that`s another story I won´t bother you with. I would not recommend this camera.

Great review. It sure is refreshing to see a reviewer who is not afraid to pile on the accolades when justified. (I'm unbiased, as I don't own one)

It seems our choice is between having a built-in flash or a decent viewfinder. Since this camera has a big sensor and a bright lens, Panasonic made the right call by making the flash an accessory. Moreover, since it has a dedicated hot shoe, we can use bounce flash, which is the most useful to me. I'd rather have a hot shoe than a built-in flash without bounce capability and no hot shoe.

I don't understand the fixation on how easy it is to move the focusing points manually. Using the directional pad to move the active sensor is a slow way to do it. Just use the center point, focus, and recompose. If the exposure situation is tricky too, then use the AEL with spot metering.

Since this has been out awhile now, the main weakness to this camera seems to be in its susceptibility to inhaling dust, which ends up on the sensor, requiring service

Oh why did they not fit a tilting screen? I do quite a bit of low level shooting and if I have to bend down or lie on the ground it really does my back in. Ah well, I'll have to a Sony RX100 1V but it costs a bit more drat it.

Just got my LX100 today and found the manual not very clear. Solved most of the problems by trial and error, but there is a last obstacle: some options stay greyed out in the rec area; simultaniuos rec, iHandheld Night Shot, iHDR and HDR.Can anyone help me here?

Hi, for making selectable HDR in menù you have to set output pic ONLY on Jpg (Hdr command stay grayed if you set RAW+Jpg).All the other voices becomes selectable if you set the camera in Mod. Snapshot using the button on the top.

Judging by the graph in the above article, the LX100 has basically a full stop of extra light gathering compared to the Sony RX100 III/ IV over almost the whole zoom range. Since these cameras are trading a lot off their F stop lenses, this seems like a pretty big deal. Strange nobody else seems to have commented on that. Would people be still buying the RX100 IV if it was more accurately labelled as a 24-70 F 2.6-3.6 ?

It's not that they're 'trading off' anything off their F numbers, it's simply the effect of bright lenses being mounted on smaller sensors.

The F-numbers on both cameras are accurate. However, the larger sensor in the LX100 will have access to more light and offer shallower depth-of-field if matched to the same angle of view and the same F-number (equivalent aperture numbers take this effect into account).

Richard, bearing in mind that the Sony RX100 III/IV sensor actually performs a bit better than the size difference between it and mFT would suggest. And the fact that the LX100 uses a cropped portion of the GX7 16mp sensor some 80% or so which would only give it a 50% greater area than the Sony. This would only give the LX100 a 0.5 stop advantage assuming identical sensor technology , given that the Sony 1” sensor is a little better than this , and given the MP advantage of the Sony RX100 III/IV at the same output size I do not think that the LX100 has anywhere near a one stop advantage . I have both the FZ1000 and GX7 in most scenarios the difference is small , you really need to be shooting at very high ISO where it is not a case of which is good but just which is least bad. Though for me the fact that the LX100 is £250 cheaper makes it a strong favourite to get my money

I hope the next version has a fully articulating screen. Maybe a bit longer lens too...24-100mm would be perfect for my needs but I cannot deal with the fixed screen. I shoot low and high (not from drugs, lol) much of the time so that is a deal killer without a fully articulated screen.

I sympathise with you as I just posted a similar comment without reading your post. How can the Sony RX 1V add a tilting screen in a much more compact camera and Panasonic cannot? I will just have to wait I suppose, but need something quickly.

Yes. You can select 'Electronic only' as a shutter option. There is also the option to turn off the electronic shutter noises (which are particularly cheesy) to achieve fully silent shooting.n.b. in a very quiet environment you might hear various internal motors spinning for things like focusing and lens stabilisation...you have to hold your ear right against the camera to hear it though.

Also, you might need to sit fairly near the front as the zoom only goes to 70mm. Which is fine for normal use but a bit limited for distance shooting. Yes you can 'crop to zoom' but probably only to an equivalent of 100mm before you would lose printable resolution.

I own this little camera, and it is amazing. Two things that Panasonic must improve: Better EVF (the one it has is useful at best in sunlight, but not good at all). Second, better resolution. How about GX8 20MP sensor?

The LX100 is *much* smaller (http://camerasize.com/compare/#629,569), and has a much faster zoom at a considerably cheaper price (if you factor in a fast m4/3 zoom). I think these cameras are different enough.

Now give me another one with 70-200mm equivalent (let say 2.8-4.0 aperture) and I will purchase both if the price is wright. It is the wide one to carry around all the time (in coat pocket or something) but I would really like to have the same one with longer lens. No, changing lenses is not an option, superzoom neither, and I would not like my 2 cameras to be bigger than LX100 (of course the longer lens must be bigger). No, GM5 with 2 lenses is not the one.

That 16MP sensor spec should not be used for this camera. Tallest photo is 3088 pixels tall (from 4:3) and widest photo is 4480 pixels wide (from 16:9). That makes it only 4480*3088=13.8M pixels for the largest rectangle area that encompasses all aspect ratios options. I think it's fine to say it has 13.8M sensor even though not all of them is used for a given aspect ratio. But to say it has a 16MP sensor is quite misleading.

It's not just that you can't ever use the whole area in a single shot; maximum pixel dimension in EITHER direction is never used. There's a band of edge pixels that is NEVER used, period. Not in 4:3, not in 3:2, not in 16:9 mode. They might as well put peanut butter there because they are never used! :) It's like Nikon officially listing D800 as having a 50MP medium format sensor but actually using 36MP FF at most.

Not quite, in that the D800 doesn't have a medium format sensor in it. By contrast, I have no reason to believe Panasonic hasn't used it's off-the-shelf 16MP Four Thirds sensor.

However, the third paragraph of this review, a diagram and a data table all make clear that you don't get the benefit of that whole sensor, and I don't think we ever repeat the '16MP' claim without qualifying it.

Yes, it does state clearly it has a 16MP sensor although it says up to 12.7MP is used. But I'd argue that one would normally read that as either horizontal or vertical edges (but not both) of the sensor is not used depending on the picture aspect ratio setting. But in this case, it's more than that. Anyway, I do appreciate that you guys made an effort to make it clear with a nice diagram above. I just think Panasonic shouldn't have used the 16MP number in the first place. 13.8MP is the number to use IMO.

"I have no reason to believe Panasonic hasn't used it's off-the-shelf 16MP Four Thirds sensor."

Well, even if they do utilize the common 16MP M43 sensors, Panasonic could technically save money in sensor cost by using samples with defects on the outer band of pixels that are never used. Those sensors otherwise would be thrown away as bad yield in manufacturing process.

The GH4 sensor is 4608 x 3456 and shoots 1:1 aspect at 3456 x 3456. Using the same sensor, the LX100 shoots 1:1 aspect at 3088 x 3088 (25% less pixels by area). Richard can you find out why Panny is not letting us use those pixels in 1:1 on the LX100? Maybe the LX100 does use blems off the GH4 sensor line.

Resolution is a red herring in terms of this camera. The lower resolution allows for bigger pixels which in turn allows for better low light shooting. Have yet to need any extra pixels with this camera as I tend to take the pictures that I want in the first place.

@TimAZ - the diagram on page 1 of this article shows how odd it is that the LX100 doesn't offer 3456 x 3456 (which it probably could).

I don't think that, logically, you'd plan a model around using imperfect sensors. Assume a certain percentage rate for significant imperfections on GH4 sensors. Then consider that only a sub-set of these would then be usable for LX100. What's the cost of finding and selecting this handful of sensors, vs just using fully up-to-spec sensors?

I will try to ask Panasonic why the LX100 can't use its full sensor height in the central region, though.

Basically there is two ways to create multi-aspect ratio camera: use the full sensor and the crop the other resolutions, or use an oversize sensor and use full image circle (diagonally) on several ratios. LX 100 uses the latter for 4:3, 16:9 and 3:2. 1:1, however, is done by cropping 4:3 instead using the whole sensor height. There seems no rational reason for that. Maybe it just was simpler to implement and the 1:1 ratio is so seldom used that they did not put the effort. Doing to would not have increased noise at all. It would just have made the view larger. In fact noise would have decreased as the sensor would have been larger. Note that cropping 1:1 is quite common. Canon G1 X Mark II does the same. It actually crops also 16:9 (from 3:2).

The benefit of using the full circle is that the wider modes have wider angle. If you shoot 16:9 you get 9 % more horizontally than in 4:3. IMO that is smarter, the optics leads the design instead of the sensor.

The area of the sensor used is still larger than competing 1" and might actually be cheaper for Panasonic rather than purchasing someone else's 1" sensor. It's probably also cheaper to use an off-the-shelf sensor rather than making a new sensor slightly smaller than 4/3. Covering more pixels would require a larger lens with a smaller effective aperture.

I'm thinking about picking up one of these as a concert camera since it is not a 'pro' camera and has a fixed lens. I usually take my X100S and a Canon G15. Has anyone used this in that capacity?Thanks

I am too for the same purpose. Would be really grateful if anyone has used it in the low/flashing light scenario of a concert could give us an idea of how well it performs? I tend to be at the front so wouldn't need to zoom in too much. Thanks.

I got this camera in Nov. First it was broken with "Focus Error" when lens is not working in May, took me 3 weeks to fix it under the warranty. When I got it back, invoice said lens was changed. In 1.5 month I got the same "Focus Error" and have to ship it back for repair.:(((( I can't rely on this camera anymore, and don't know what to do. It's not like $200 camera...:((( Very disappointed!

Having finally remembered to turn Silent Mode off I can now use the flash in programmable modes but not in iA mode.for quick snaps. Why is this? About the only time I would use a flash indoors is when I cant be bothered to mess manually with aperture and speed etc. Quick party snaps. Please tell me its possible! EDIT : oh, silent mode wasnt off in iA mode : only in programmable mode. Now it is it works. Ignore!

For a while I have been lurking around trying to find my ideal compact camera. As I see it, the LX100 is right up there with the new Sony RX100 IV, but lacks a feature which I find important, namely, built-in flash. This type of camera lends itself to the sort of photography where fill flash is frequently called for, and is a feature I used quite a lot back in film days (revealing my age I suppose).

Well, tge great majority of the time I never have to use a flash as its low light performance is great. That said Im currently awaiting a Q regarding why flash doesnt appear to work in fully automatic mode.

I have the lx100 for about a month. Basically I love it.But I have some questions about it, when I am in manual model, which means I set the aperture and the shutter speed, but when I half-press the shutter button, the camera will still change the shutter speed for me. it's annoying but I think maybe I did something in settings.

and one more thing is, the machine will get hot for some time of using. Is it normal?

Not that there's a firmware update out yet (?), but for the life of me I can't find out how to go about it once there is. Don't see anything in the manual or online. Any insight would be most appreciated.

Yes the silver version looks great! I've been out with the LX100 a few times since my last comments on here. The camera is an absolute pleasure to use. It's solid but much lighter than carrying a DSLR around as I don't need to change lenses. The 24-75mm range of the LX100's lens covers all my needs. I've seen comments & reviews saying the zoom range is a bit small, but that's very much a personal thing. The 24mm wide end is far more valuable to me than say, a 28mm wide end which is typical of a DSLR kit lens.

I've currently got the camera to shoot both RAW & JPEG. It's good to be able to compare both. Some reviews have been critical of the JPEGS but I think they are pretty good. It goes without saying of course, that RAW images processed in Lightroom are producing superior pictures as there is more latitude and more detail can be brought out of the highlights & shadows.I've owned numerous DSLRs & premium compacts, but the Lumix LX100 is definitely the most intuitive & fun camera!

I have the silver also and love it. I find it so easy to use, easier than my E-M5 in fact. I love using the Aperture ring, makes me think every time I take a shot. The EV ring is easy to use as well. The Program Mode works extremely well, better than my Oly. The focusing is probably one of the best features. I use the Pinpoint most of the time, it's very quick and you can actually see that things are in focus. With my Oly, even with Manual Focus Assist, I had trouble seeing if anything was in focus for real. I don't really shoot movies, so can't comment on that. All I can say is, this is one of the most 'fun' and well made cameras I've ever used.

My Silver LX100 has arrived today & I can't wait to get out to use it! First impressions are solid build, feels good & inspires confidence to hold, lots of external controls, very fast lens, and as an added bonus it looks great!I've had DSLRs, great pictures but are too bulky for me to be bothered with carrying round all day and I don't need to change lenses. I've had various compacts but only the Fuji X20 had a viewfinder, which was a bit on the small side and the sensor was still quite small. Finally, after all these years, if the image quality is as good as DP Review state, this would appear to be my dream camera!!

I live in the UK, and the current cheapest UK dealer price for the LX100 is £599 (922 US dollars). Through ebay I settled on a Hong Kong dealer with lots of positive reviews and got the LX100 for £465 (716 US dollars). No import taxes. I'm very pleased with it!!

I will update when I have had some use of the camera, I've got to go now and take pictures!!

I have owned the LX7, and love it but hit the wall on my needs. I have sworn to make a significant jump with my next purchase. I have two questions for the group:

STILLS: how large would you dare blow up a still from this camera to be gallery worthy? I took my files from the LX7 to Duggal and the printer advised "not larger than 20 inches." I need bigger. Is the LX100 an improvement on that? Or is it only a jump to say, the Sony a7r, with its 36mp the way to go big?

VIDEO: How does the LX100 's 4k res video shooting compare to 4k on the Sony a7s? I hear the LX100 will record internally, whereas the Sony does not. But my bigger question is - does the Lumix look crappier with its m43 sensor, rather than full? Or will it integrate into professional (Alexa) footage like the Sony a7s does?

I've bought a LX100 in Bangkok. The problem is that 4K videos are recorded at 25 or 24 frames per second. Ok, I can use 24FPS, as there is no big differences (I hope so). But in 1080p it gets maximum of 50 FPS instead of 60 FPS that my other cameras and camcorders are able to produce. Is there any way to change specs to USA one? Any firmware? Thanks.

Unless size is the issue, I disagree. Although slightly bigger and for me requires the LVF2, I think the GX1 has several advantages. One is that the GX1 is capable of using my three different lenses, including the Summilux Leica 25mm. I prefer it's LVF 2 to the LX100's eye level overall and diopter the adjustment let me down. What I decided after returning the LX100 is that I want the best of both worlds Size and feel and something able to deliver a higher res. I don't know it is already here and if not hopefully it will land soon.

After many years of photography under my belt … I decided to add a smaller (which seemed like an excellent choice) camera to my professional collection … A new Panasonic Lumix DMC LX100 ..Was really looking forward to this new compact camera .. something that I could carry easily & not be so obvious with my intentions ..Now I find myself really disappointed that Panasonic's Instruction CD does not cover Apple Computer processing … This should have been disclosed ..After trying several downloads I still came up with a big ZERO … to process my RAW images …I did telephone Panasonic Customer Support twice & the 2nd time they just cut me off … I sure could use a magic solution … Most disappointed … inga ...

Have you thought about using Adobe Lightroom 5.7.1? This has full support for the LX100 including RAW processing. I picked up a licence off e bay covering 2 PCS Windows or MAC for £29 / $44. Then I downloaded from Adobe where you get to choose the windows or Mac version. It's a great piece of software. I've tried the Panasonic software that came with the camera, I just don't find it user friendly at all, not intuitive like Lightroom is. So you haven't really missed much by not being able to install the Panasonic software, try using the Panasonic disc as a frisby, it's more useful !!!

When space is limited, I do not understand why the LX7 is on that table, and not the G7X. The surpassed LX7 is completely eclipsed by the 3 others and is irrelevant in that context. I'm quite certain that most readers would prefer the inclusion of the G7X on that table, if you had to choose only 3.

Just curious why the Panasonic LX100 and the Sony RX100 MK III are not listed in the same category as this camera. In fact I can’t find those cameras at all even when I check the “include all categories” box.

If this camera is in the Premium Enthusiast category what category are the LX100 and R100 MK III in?

I guess I found the answer to my question. The LX100 and RX100 MK III are in the “Enthusiast Large Sensor Compact Camera” category. That actually makes sense because the small sensor is the biggest drawback for the X30.

It would be interesting to know why 1:1 is just a crop of 4:3, instead of taking advantage of the full sensor height. Well, even the full width isn't used by any of the formats, but there is still a lot more unused height.

Hi out there, I need some help please..... I need to buy a video camera for my employment in Australia, My budget is $1,000 and I take short videos 3 - 5 minutes of Dental work being completed, so I am needing good quality videos with crisp colors which will be shot at close range approx 30cms away from the camera. I have been recommended the Panasonic LX100 and I am interested in your thoughts. Would this give me fantastic bright crisp videos on the computer?

Does anyone know why this review is missing the "Performance" section? I'm curious to know the time it takes from off to capture mode. The RX-100 III takes 1.6 seconds, the II took 2.2 seconds! The best Canon P&S takes 1.3 seconds.

Anyone know how long this one takes? I have some young kids so this is an important feature for me.

I tried it at the store and I fell in love with its mechanical feel and traditional controls, and the optics!However considering the price it should offer higher resolution and/or better IQ. I am not particularly fond of the way the EVF is implemented. I ended up buying and A6000, I think for the money offers a lot more. And the controls are still a pleasure to use. Ideally I would have wanted this camera with the sensor and the features (AF, fps etc) of the A6000. Oh well, I guess time for shopping for metabones and keeping my finger crossed that Sony at some point will release a decent competitor to the Canon M lens 22mm/2.0

@ moe,agreed, but at this price point I expect a better performer all around. A6000 is less then 2/3 of the price with the kit lens. This camera is not a lowlight and 4K video monster like the A7s, so I would rather get a bit more resolution and be able to crop without resampling on a 4K screen. Not to mention that you can stick a much faster lens in front of the A6000 if you want. I got my metabones and I got to say coupled with my Sigma 18-35/1.8 ant it is pretty cool although not compact :-P

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